Final Phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Polls Kicks Off Today

The third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election starts today, involving 40 constituencies and over 3.9 million voters. The election features 415 candidates, with major political parties and leaders actively campaigning. Voting ends at 6 PM, and results will be declared on October 8.

Polling for the decisive third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election begins today at 7 AM, with 40 constituencies, including 24 in the Jammu division and 16 in the Kashmir Valley, set to vote.

The Election Commission has confirmed that over 3.9 million voters across seven districts are eligible to participate in this phase, which will run from 7 AM to 6 PM. Robust security measures are in place to ensure smooth proceedings.

A total of 415 candidates, including high-profile figures like former deputy chief ministers Tara Chand (Congress) and Muzaffar Hussain Beig, are vying for victory. BJP candidate Vikram Randhawa was seen offering prayers at Bawe Wali Mata Mahakali Mandir, indicating the election fervor. His principal opponents include Congress' Taranjit Singh Tony and PDP's Varinder Singh.

The high-stakes campaign concluded on Sunday, marking the first election since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Major parties like BJP, Congress, NC, and PDP fiercely debated issues like Pakistan, Article 370, terrorism, and reservations.

Prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former chief ministers, were on the ground to sway voters. With previous phases recording turnouts of 61% and 57.31%, respectively, the results will be unveiled on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)